Blue Hill Memorial Hospital will host the American Red Cross Blood Donor Bus on Friday, February 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the hospital announced in a news release.

BHMH will be honoring a local community member at this blood drive. Surry resident Judy Smith has been fighting cancer (multiple myeloma). Along with Judy’s friends and family, BHMH is eager to spread awareness about the importance of giving blood.

Lead volunteer, friend, and neighbor Denise Giles has coordinated efforts to recruit volunteers and blood donors for this event. “Judy and her husband, Dawson, have been among the first to help others when needed. It’s no surprise that so many family and friends have supported Judy throughout her challenge with cancer. Giving blood seemed a simple and easy way for her community to honor her in a way that serves others too,” said Giles. “Donating blood truly is donating the gift of life.”

Both Dawson and Karen Lanpher, Judy’s daughter, and her three sons Scott, Dirk and Sean have been among her primary caregivers throughout this time. They and others have helped Judy maintain her sense of humor and her sassy attitude as best she can.

BHMH asks the community to consider calling to schedule an appointment directly with the Red Cross. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or log onto redcrossblood.org. Registration for all donors on the day of the event will take place in the Brownlow Room at the hospital.